After successive draws to begin the Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 season, Adelaide United will be keen to claim all three points against Brisbane Roar on Saturday afternoon.
The Reds fought back from the brink against Melbourne City last weekend to snatch a 2-2 draw courtesy of Ben Halloran’s dramatic equaliser.
Meanwhile, Brisbane have suffered back-to-back defeats against both City and Melbourne Victory respectively and were comprehensively beaten by the latter 3-0.
Despite the results, a tough match awaits the visitors in a contest that produces relatively even encounters.
However, somewhat remarkably, November 2016 was the last time there was a draw between these two sides – a run of 14 games without a stalemate.
Team news
Carl Veart confirmed both Juande and George Blackwood will be available for selection next week and hinted Craig Goodwin may make his first start of the season. Nick Ansell also travelled after missing the City clash.
What the experts say
Michael Zappone: Brisbane have had a tough couple of weeks on the road with successive day trips to Melbourne which is not an ideal way to start the season. Adelaide’s comeback against the Champions at home last week should give them a huge boost.
Lucas Pantelis: Brisbane has started slowly with results not going their way. Adelaide United has had two sound performances without claiming the 3 points. Both teams will be out to get there first win of the season and looking forward to an attacking game of football.
One to watch
Michael Zappone: Kusini Yengi – the Adelaide striker turned the game on its head with a powerful and positive run, firing his effort against the post, which led to the first goal. If he can impose himself on the game more frequently, then Adelaide will be hard to beat.
Lucas Pantelis: Ben Halloran has a started the season in great form. After having a solid pre-season is no wonder why Ben has come out of blocks rearing to go. After is last minutes equaliser against Melbourne City last weekend, Ben will be looking to continue that goal scoring form.
Key battle
Michael Zappone: Jay O’Shea is the key for me. His leadership, his passing ability and his delivery from a dead ball are his strongest attributes and Adelaide will he well aware of that. Which then leads to Isaías, the Adelaide captain has the ability not only to break up play but to create as well.
Lucas Pantelis: There are two battles that I believe will determine the result, how Brisbane Roar’s defence handle the strength of Kusini Yengi and how Adelaide United can handle the speed of former player Nikola Mileusnic.
One change you’d like to see
Michael Zappone: Craig Goodwin. With more minutes in his legs, the Socceroo will be carefully considered to start the match. His ability to get in behind defences can be great attacking weapon.
Lucas Pantelis: I thoroughly enjoyed the pressure that Adelaide United produced against Melbourne City and should continue that tactic even though they are away from home. It will be interesting to see if Carl Veart brings in Craig Goodwin from start after having 2 games with solid minutes behind him after coming on from the bench.
Head-to-head
Played: 51
Wins: 23
Draws: 9
Losses: 19
Last five meetings
1-2 win (A)
1-0 win (H)
3-1 loss (A)
0-1 win (A)
2-1 loss (A)
Predictions
Michael Zappone: I think Adelaide can get the job done away from home. Warren Moon will need to take the game to the Reds at home, but I believe Adelaide have the edge going forward as evidenced by the last minute brilliance of Ben Halloran last Saturday night. Adelaide to win 2-1.
Lucas Pantelis: I believe there will be a few goals in this game as both teams have the fire power to score goals with both teams looking for their first win of the season. AUFC to win 2-1.
Match details:
Saturday, 4 December vs Brisbane Roar
Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 – Round 3
Kick-off 4.35pm ACDT
Venue: Moreton Daily Stadium
Stream: Paramount+
